By Alexa Emerson, Class of 2017
Each blood donation has the potential to save three lives. And if student Megan O’Brien has her way, 9,000 lives will be saved – starting next week.
O’Brien is among the many coordinators of the 31st Annual Clemson vs. USC Blood Bowl, which begins on Monday, Nov 16 and runs through Friday, Nov. 20. O’Brien is a member of Alpha Phi Omega organization, which staffs and coordinates the Blood Bowl efforts. While blood donation is a serious event, organizers make it fun by turning it into a contest between Clemson and the University of South Carolina (USC).
In partnership with the Blood Connection and AnMed Health, the two universities take part in an annual friendly competition to see who can get the most blood donations in one week.
And it’s not pretty. USC has beat Clemson the past seven years in a row. Moreover, USC has “home field advantage” this year, meaning tallying will solely be based on number of donations rather than percentage of the student body that donates. So, Clemson needs your help!
Here’s what to do
Give blood. Faculty and staff can donate any time from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Nov. 16 through 20. The drive will happen at a number of locations including Bowman Field, Holmes, Brackett, Riggs, Fernow Street, McAdams, Newman Hall, and three locations in Hendrix. Those who participate will receive a free t-shirt as well as a wristband that is good for deals in downtown Clemson all week.
Every year, Clemson has close to 3,000 donors on campus, but this year, O’Brien wants to exceed the 3,000 mark, meaning the Clemson family has the impact to help save over 9,000 lives. With your help, Clemson can exceed this goal (and beat South Carolina!).
